Sports Nutrition Intern

Nutrition Intern

The United States Naval Academy Sports Nutrition Department (Sports Medicine) is seeking two paid Nutrition Interns for a 10-month term beginning on July 15, 2026 and ending on May 14, 2027.

Under the supervision of the Director and Assistant Director of Sports Nutrition, the Sports Nutrition Intern will assist in planning and implementing sports nutrition services for student-athletes at the U.S. Naval Academy. This full-time internship provides hands-on experience in performance nutrition, including assessments, fueling station management, and educational outreach. The role supports collaborative efforts with athletic trainers, strength staff, and other departments to promote student-athlete wellness and performance.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities:

• Provide sports nutrition services for assigned athletic teams through nutrition assessments, counseling support, and applied performance nutrition strategies during training, competition, and travel.
• Assist with the coordination and daily operation of multiple fueling stations, including inventory management, product procurement, and athlete fueling support.
• Prepare and distribute NCAA-compliant fluids, snacks, and supplements to support student-athlete training and recovery.
• Contribute to the development and delivery of nutrition education initiatives through presentations, demonstrations, and digital platforms (e.g., social media).
• Collaborate with sports dietitians to implement team meal planning and performance fueling strategies.
• Engage in professional development opportunities including staff education sessions, case discussions, and applied learning experiences.
• Maintain knowledge of current sports nutrition research, trends, and evidence-based practices.
• Adhere to NCAA regulations and institutional policies and report potential violations to the Compliance Office.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Nutrition, Dietetics, or a related field required.
• Registered Dietitian (RD/RDN) or RD-eligible (with expectations to sit for RD exam within 3 months of employment).
• Ideal for entry-level individuals pursuing CSSD (Certified Specialist in Sports Dietetics) certification.
• Strong organizational and time management skills.
• Effective communication and collaboration skills.
• Attention to detail with ability to work under pressure in a fast-paced athletic environment.
• Familiarity with safe food handling and storage practices.
• Proficient in content creation for social media is a plus.

Additional Eligibility Requirements:

• Must be eligible to work in the United States of America, without sponsorship.
• Must be eligible to work on a military installation, including a willingness to submit to a background screen.
• Must possess a valid driver's license.

Work Conditions/Physical Requirements:

• Work in varied environments including kitchens, fueling stations, storage areas, and outdoor areas.
• Exposure to fluctuating temperatures (hot, cold, humid).
• Frequent physical activity: lifting, bending, walking, standing (up to 4–6 hours), and navigating stairs.
• Regular lifting of materials/products up to 45 lbs., with or without assistance.
• Use of carts, dollies, pallet jacks, and other equipment to transport items.
• Must adhere to health and safety protocols, including appropriate use of personal protective equipment.

Travel:

• Minimal travel required; may involve local procurement trips.

The NAAA Featured Benefits:

• Medical
• Dental
• Vision
• 403(b) retirement plan
• Paid holidays
• Paid accrued vacation and sick days
• NAAA paid life/AD&D insurance

Pay Range:

$16/hour, this position is non-exempt.

Application Process:

• Qualified applicants should submit a cover letter, resume, and 3 professional references.
• Applications will be accepted until positions are filled.

Disclaimer Statement:

This position description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change, or new ones may be assigned at any time with or without notice.